Plans for 94 homes off Europa Way in Ipswich closer after 12 years of delays

Plans to turn a former business park into homes near Sproughton Road have taken a step closer after developers have submitted updated plans – more than a decade after planning permission was first approved.

The former Eastway Business Park in Europa Way was first identified in December 2005 when planning permission was granted to build 218 homes up to five storeys tall.

But when the permission lapsed after three years, the site was brought up for availability again, being earmarked in housing availability in 2010.

Despite further delays, outline planning permission was granted in 2013 to create 94 homes, and developers have now submitted more details which will go to planners in October.

Michael Smith, director of JCN Design & Planning which is the agent on behalf of Anderson Design & Build Ltd, said: “It’s been in the local plan for a while, and had permission way back in December 2005 for residential use. Now we are getting to the details.

“That part of town is a good suburban location for new homes – there are schools and shops and you have got development there in recent years. I think it suits housing.”

The plans submitted indicate an intention to build 60 houses and 34 flats, as well as developing play areas, open space, parking and a revised access road.

The reserved matters application, which was submitted this summer, is currently in the consultation period, and is due to go before planners in October.

If approved, developers aim to begin work on the site “immediately”.

The application added: “The proposed scheme is intended to create its own character but takes design cues from the residential area immediately to the east and responds to the proximity of employment uses to the west and south, ensuring that an attractive residential environment is created that is in keeping with the suburban character of the western side of Ipswich.”

The development is one of a number of former employment areas in Ipswich earmarked for potential housing.